Work is keeping me more than busy with multiple programmes ongoing. I’m getting a fair bit of travel in, and some long days. It’s true what they say that you learn who you are when times are tough, and I’m learning a lot about myself. Helped in part by a leadership development programme I am currently doing with the University of Manchester (my old Alma Mater). This has been great as it is a constant reminder to get out of the weeds and find the space to work on the business more than I work in the business. As part of this, I also did a Hogan Assessment, which showed me some of my (what they call) dark traits – that is the traits that come out when I’m under pressure. Being aware of these means I can spot them when they materialise and do something with them.
Outside Work
I’m back running now. In fact I just completed a 7.5 mile run, which whilst it isn’t my longest run ever, isn’t far off it. Whilst I was aiming to get my 5k down under 25 minutes this year, the blip in my fitness has tempered that ambition. I’m happy that I am back under 30 minutes (earlier this year) and I’m now aiming to beat my previous PB of 27:04. Not times to set the world on fire, but I’m not built for these distances. I just enjoy it.
The motorbike has takena bit of a back seat this year – it needs to go into the garage after some kindly soul tried to steal it and broke the ignition. So most of the rest of my time has been spent on the house, trying to get that into shape as lots of jobs have piled up. It is so true that there is no such thing as a quick job!